The design world's biggest names take on gems and metals as a medium

Jewelry by Design

Jewelry by Design

Many notable architects and artists have dabbled in jewelry design, from Zaha Hadid and Michael Graves to René Magritte to Jeff Koons—the latter two spotlighted in the Museum of Art and Design’s “The Artist as Jeweler” exhibition last year. So it’s only natural that smart shoppers would look to these design world luminaries when it comes to the notoriously hard-to-shop-for gift. Here, five contemporary jewelry collections with serious names behind their designs

Frank Gehry for Tiffany

Frank Gehry for Tiffany

Known for its signature silver and trademarked blue, Tiffany acquired a bit of edge in its partnership with legendary architect Frank Gehry. Instead of sweet hearts and delicate diamonds, Gehry’s pieces are crafted with strong architectural lines. In addition to silver and gold, the designs are also available in less-expected materials, including both agate and concrete. Prices start at $850; tiffany.com.